Free and low-cost nature fun for families in the Delaware area

Local arboretums, nature centers and parks in the Delaware area offer free and low-cost family programming in the spring. Check out some of the fun ways to explore nature in your area.

Delaware Nature Society

The Delaware Nature Society operates multiple nature facilities that are open to the public for exploration & picnics, as well as other sites that offer varying activities and grounds to explore during special programs. See below for details.

Buena Vista Conference & Reception Center, New Castle

Visit this site during special events to see the 18th-century barn, pastures & rolling countryside, where families can learn about farming, livestock, the origins of food, organic gardening & composting.

This open-to-the-public center near the edge of the Christina River offers many water-related nature programs through indoor & outdoor exhibits and a boardwalk that extends into a marsh. Admission is free, as are many special programs.

On May 10, head to the center’s gardens & greenhouse in celebration of National Public Gardens Day, for free demonstrations & tours. The center celebrates “Discover the DCH Week” May 13-23 with planting & gardening activities. On May 18, explore the Urban Farm in a workshop where participants plant seeds & help tend to the garden.

Take a self-guided tour through the gardens to see seasonal sweeps of color in the Landscape Color Trial Garden, home-gardening ideas in the South Greenhouse Garden and plants that attract caterpillars & butterflies in the Native Garden. Admission is free.